Whirlpool washing machine fire risk revealed as recall launched

Whirlpool is recalling certain models of Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines made between 2014 and 2018. 

The machines are being recalled owing to a fault with the door lock, which poses a fire risk. Owners of washing machines from Indesit and Hotpoint purchased since 2014 are urged to contact Whirlpool immediately to check if their washing machine is one of the affected models. 

If you think you might have a washing machine from one of these brands, you can see if it needs to be recalled by checking the list of affected models below. 

You will need the full model and the serial numbers which can be found on the tag located either on the back of the dryer door or in the recess of the dryer door. If you are struggling to find the number, Whirlpool have advised that the numbers may also be found at the back of the appliance on the rating plate. You can also call 0800 316 1442.  

Prevention manager for community fire safety Rabinder Dhami said: “The advice from the fire service is to be cautious and follow the advice issued by Whirlpool to unplug your washing machine and not use it.  

“If your washing machine is not affected, you do not need to worry – it is safe to use as normal. 

The advice issued by Whirlpool states: “To avoid all risk associated with the use of affected models, you should unplug your washing machine and not use it. If nevertheless you do choose to use your appliance, you should only use cold water cycles of 20C or lower, as this significantly reduces the risk. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to you at this time.” 

If your washing machine is affected, once you register it, Whirlpool will contact you to either have it replaced free of charge with a like-for-like model or have a free-of-charge in-home repair of your current machine. 

Whirlpool’s webpage is experiencing some technical difficulties at the time of writing, so take a look at the list below to see if your Hotpoint or Indesit washing machine is affected by the recall.  

The machines are listed by their model numbers, which can be found in the recess inside the door or on the back of the appliance, followed by the brand name. 

FML 742P UK Hotpoint 
WMAOD 743G UK Hotpoint 
WMAOD 743P UK Hotpoint 
WMAQB 721P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMAQC 641P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMAQC 741G UK Hotpoint 
WMAQC 741P UK Hotpoint 
WMAQC 741P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMAQF 621G UK Hotpoint 
WMAQF 621P UK Hotpoint 
WMAQF 641 P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMAQF 721G UK Hotpoint 
WMAQF 721P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMAQL 621G UK Hotpoint 
WMBF 742G UK Hotpoint 
WMBF 742K UK Hotpoint 
WMBF 742P UK Hotpoint 
WMBF 742P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMBF 763P UK Hotpoint 
WMEF 722 BC UK Hotpoint 
WMEF 742 P UK Hotpoint 
WMEUF 722P UK Hotpoint 
WMEUF 743G UK Hotpoint 
WMEUF 743P UK Hotpoint 
WMFG 741P UK Hotpoint 
WMFG 741P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMFUG 742 P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMFUG 742G UK Hotpoint 
WMFUG 742P UK Hotpoint 
WMFUG 842P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMJLF 842P UK Hotpoint 
WMJLL 742P UK Hotpoint 
WMSAQG 621P UK Hotpoint 
WMXTF 742G UK Hotpoint 
WMXTF 742K UK Hotpoint 
WMXTF 742P UK Hotpoint 
WMXTF 742P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMXTF 842P UK.M Hotpoint 
WMYL 7151PS UK Hotpoint 
XWA 81252X K UK Indesit 
XWA 81252X W UK Indesit 
XWD 71452X K UK Indesit 

Jeff Noel, vice president of Whirlpool, advised that the firm is putting in extra measures to increase delivery and collection capability for fixing or replacing machines.  

If you know of a vulnerable person that needs support with this issue, then please email enquiries@shropshirefire.gov.uk 

18th December, 2019